Kentucky Soldier Wins Discrimination Suit

A Shelbyville Police Officer wins lawsuit against the Oldham County Police Department, and is awarded $600,000.00 in damages. The lawsuit alleged discrimination in hiring based upon military service. Discrimination and retaliation in Kentucky’s workplace is illegal.
In this case, a Shelbyville Police Officer, who was also an enlisted member of the Kentucky National Guard, applied for a police officer position with the Oldham County Police Department. The Oldham County, Kentucky position paid more than the Shelbyville position. The Officer passed ever test and was told in July 2008 that he would be getting the new position. A start date was assigned to him and a salary specified. Then after the Oldham County Police Department learned that the Shelbyville Officer was also enlisted in the Kentucky National Guard and might be called up for duty, it withdrew its offer and gave the position to another person.

Discrimination based upon military service is a violation of both federal and Kentucky law. Businesses and employers who violate and discriminate against an employee or prospective employee can be sued for damages including punitive damages, if the jury finds the conduct was willful. Kentucky employees who believe that they have been discriminated or retaliated against should seek legal counsel to know their rights.
For more information on the rights of employees and workers in Kentucky, or for information about prosecuting discriminations, work place retaliations, and wrongful firing of Kentucky employees, email employment attorney Brent T. Ackerson and the Ackerson Law Offices by clicking here or call our office for a free consult, at (502) 882-5176.